The Chicago Bears made a depth move after losing Luther Burden to injury, bringing in receiver Ray-Ray McCloud. Having the pass catcher as a camp and preseason option makes a great deal of sense and gives you a wildcard at the bottom of the depth chart. However, it isn't a signing that comes without a level of concern or risk. McCloud spent last season with the Atlanta Falcons and New York Giants, dealing with a surprise release from Atlanta, opening the door to landing with New York, where McCloud offered five receiving yards in two games.
What set this up was a release from Atlanta after only four games played and a healthy scratch. McCloud was expected to be the team's third or fourth option at the position, leading to rumors of discord. Former Falcons head coach Raheem Morris insisted that it was a "performance based" decision and there wasn't any more to the story. This is incredibly difficult to believe based on the fact that McCloud was still growing chemistry with a new quarterback and was coming off the most impressive season of his career offensively.
Something happened to trigger the release, and whether or not Chicago is aware of the full story, there has to be an understanding of the risk. McCloud is going to have to come in and prove that it was either coaching at fault or simply a blip in what has been an otherwise stable career.
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It is important to note here that all of this is speculation, with there being no clear answer as to why McCloud was jettisoned in that way. The point here is an awareness that Chicago's current expectations are far too high to allow any piece to make waves or be a potential distraction. If McCloud in any way hints at why Atlanta turned the page, the Bears cannot hesitate to quickly pivot.
The flip side of this is pointing out McCloud's speed and the obvious need for contributors at the bottom of the depth chart. If the veteran is able to come in and win the final role, there is a chance that his speed can be used both on special teams, and as a rotational deep threat for Caleb Williams to utilize.
No matter how it plays out, there is every reason to believe Ben Johnson will be cautious, as the franchise has too high of expectations to risk anyone rocking the boat, especially a fringe roster piece brought in only due to injury.
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